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Kaplan City Guide: London

London needs no introduction: there's always something exciting happening in this bustling city. More than red buses and telephone boxes, there are incredible museums which are free to visit and open 7 days a week, various food markets around the city, countless pubs, gigs, plays, and events. Find out the best things to do and see, straight from other Kaplan students!

You're in the heart of London

“The school is located in central London, so it’s easy to go sightseeing, shopping, go to the theater, and even hang out with friends. Also, museums and galleries are all free, so London is absolutely the right place for people who love history, art, music, and fashion!!"

Tip provided by
Juri Ogino, Japan

Both Kaplan International schools in London are very centrally located, one in Covent Garden and the other in Leicester Square. After class, you can walk around and enjoy an extensive variety of shops, theater, bars, restaurants, museums, and all that Central London and the West End have to offer.

Enjoy the central location of our schools

Explore Camden Town

“Spend the whole day in Camden Town – it's beautiful; there are millions of strange but unique people, and you have all kinds of clothes, food and shops selling all sorts of things, and the ambiance is fascinating."

Tip provided by
Francisco, Ecuador

Camden Town has an interesting history and is famous for its alternative culture. The iconic Electric Ballroom, a music venue, has played host to some of the best rock and punk bands in the world, from The Sex Pistols, to U2, the Killers, and Red Hot Chili Peppers, amongst others. Visitors can also enjoy the many stalls which are situated in an old horse stable where all types of things are on sale – enjoy interesting cuisines, alternative clothing, accessories, antiques, books, and crafts. Locals and tourists gather here to enjoy its pubs, shops, and live music venues, and to take a selfie with the statue of Camden’s most famous resident, Amy Winehouse. When you get tired of the madness (if you ever do), stroll by Regent's Canal to re-boost your energy.

Enjoy food from around the world

“In this city you have the opportunity to taste foods that represent traditions from different parts of the world."

Tip provided by
Maria Antonietta Caldarola, Italy

Food is always a good way to knock off homesickness and London is one of the best cities for it. There are all kind of cuisine being served in London, from street food to trendy restaurants: whatever you want to eat, you will find it in here. Borough Market is a must, but there are countless food markets all over the city. Take advantage and experiment with the many dishes that represent the diverse population of London.

Stroll along the South Bank

“There is a small café on a street near to London Bridge close to South Bank Centre which I think is a really charming place, with views of a beautiful part of the city."

Tip provided by
Celia Sanchez, Spain

The South Bank is the perfect place for a day's stroll. There's always something happening there! Start at the London Eye, visit the Southbank Centre and then walk to Gabriel's Wharf and have lunch outside enjoying the river views. Head to Tate Modern to visit its exhibitions (make sure you go to the café on level 6, the view is amazing!). When you are done at the museum, cross the Millennium Bridge and you can visit St. Paul's Cathedral – all in a day's work when you're in London!

Enjoy the many free activities in London

“Try to visit as many places in London as possible. My favorite places are museums and art galleries, which I could visit as often as I wanted because they are free to the public, which was a great experience for me. London has many parks of various sizes. It's really common for Londoners to eat, read, or even nap in the parks, and you can relax at the parks in the same way.”

Tip provided by
Soyoung Kim, South Korea

Enjoy the many green spaces in the heart of London, stroll through Hyde Park and visit the memorial for Princess Diana, or head north to Hampstead Heath and swim in the refreshing ponds during the summer months. Take advantage of the many free galleries and museums around the city and soak up the atmosphere of the bustling streets.

Enjoy the free activities around the city

Try the famous British dish – Fish and Chips

“You must try the famous fish and chips. It is served in most of the pubs. You should also try a full English breakfast.”

Tip provided by
Gabriele Tipaldi, Italy

When in London…do as the Londoners do! The most exciting part of a trip is learning about new cultures so embrace the British way and try a range of delicious meals from fish and chips to a "full English" or the traditional Sunday roast.

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ABOUT KAPLAN

Kaplan International offers a wide range of immersive English language courses to adults and teens via the largest network of schools in the English-speaking world. Last year, more than 70,000 students studied with us, and 97% would recommend us to family and friends.